PART FOUR – DESIGNATED AREAS AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Section 10(1) of the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988 (the Act) states that the National Capital Plan (the Plan) may specify areas of land that have the special characteristics of the National Capital to be Designated Areas. The Act (section 10 (2)(c))further states that the Plan may set out detailed conditions of planning, design and development in Designated Areas and the priorities in carrying out such planning, design and development.

Finally, section 10(2)(d) of the Act states that the Plan may set out special requirements for the development of any area (not being a Designated Area), being requirements that are desirable in the interests of the National Capital.

Part Four of the Plan therefore:

To give effect to the above, Part Four has been structured as follows:

Part Four(a) ‘Principles and Policies for Designated Areas and Special Requirements for National Land outside Designated Areas’ sets out conditions for those areas where the Commonwealth has planning approval responsibility. This includes both Designated Areas and National Land outside Designated Areas.

Part Four(b) ‘Special Requirements for Territory Land’ sets out Special Requirements for those areas where the Commonwealth maintains a high level of interest, but where the Territory planning authority has planning approval responsibility (Territory Land subject to Special Requirements).

Further information is available in separate explanatory statements for Part Four(a) and Part Four(b).

PART FOUR(A) – PRINCIPLES AND POLICIES FOR DESIGNATED AREAS AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR NATIONAL LAND OUTSIDE DESIGNATED AREAS

Part Four(a) sets out conditions for those areas where the Commonwealth has planning approval responsibility. This includes both Designated Areas and National Land outside Designated Areas. Part Four(a) consists of:

Designated Areas (identified in Part One of the Plan) are divided into a series of precincts. Precinct Codes and General Codes identify planning and design controls for different precincts and development types within Designated Areas. An application for works approval will be assessed against the provisions of the relevant code(s).

Precinct Codes provide objectives, and planning and design controls for defined spatial areas.

General Codes provide detailed controls for particular aspects of development or types of development.

Where inconsistencies exist between provisions of applicable Codes, Precinct Codes take precedence over General Codes.

Each identified precinct within the Central National Area, with the exception of Canberra Airport which is subject to a Master Plan under other legislation, is subject to a Precinct Code.

The Inner Hills forms part of Designated Areas, however is also part of the broader Hills, Ridges and Buffer Spaces land use category of the National Capital Open Space System (NCOSS). In treating Hills, Ridges and Buffer Spaces as a whole, provisions for the Inner Hills are located with other policies for this area in Part Three of the Plan.

Development within the Central National Area as defined in this part is also guided by a series of general principles (derived from ‘The Griffin Legacy Propositions’) and detailed conditions of planning, design and development applicable to all precincts within the Central National Area.

The Act makes provision for the Plan to set out Special Requirements for the development of any area (not being within Designated Areas), being requirements that are desirable in the interests of the National Capital. In addition to areas of Territory Land (refer Part Four(b)), Special Requirements apply to National Land outside Designated Areas.

Figure 10 identifies each precinct within Designated Areas. Precincts numbered 1-15 and Canberra Airport form the Central National Area.

Map showing the location of the 16 precincts within the Designated Areas.

Map showing the location of the 16 precincts within the Designated Areas.

Figure 10: Designated Areas precincts

Detailed conditions of planning, design and development for each precinct are set out in a series of Precinct Codes. General policies are also applicable to the Central National Area and the Parliamentary Zone and its setting (as defined below).

The Central National Area includes the following Precincts:

  1. Parliamentary Zone
  2. Barton
  3. Deakin/Forrest Residential Area
  4. City Hill
  5. West Basin
  6. Constitution Avenue and Anzac Parade
  7. Australian Defence Force Academy, Royal Military College Duntroon, and Campbell Park Precinct
  8. Australian National Botanic Gardens
  9. Jerrabomberra Wetlands
  10. Lake Burley Griffin and Foreshores
  11. Acton Peninsula
  12. Diplomatic Precinct (Yarralumla, Deakin and O’Malley)
  13. Australian Institute of Sport
  14. Australian National University
  15. CSIRO Black Mountain
  16. Canberra Airport (within the Central National Area however not within Designated Areas).

Main Avenues and Approach Routes are subject to a Precinct Code as they are within Designated Areas, but are not part of the Central National Area.

Development in the Central National Area will be guided by the principles below. The principles direct future public and private investment in core areas of the capital where opportunities are created for vibrant, mixed use precincts alongside cultural institutions, government buildings and major national attractions. They restore the intended urbanity and vitality of Canberra as a cosmopolitan lakeside city.

The following general policies will form a basis for planning and urban design decisions for the Central National Area, its landscape setting and approaches. These include:

1. Protect the Griffins’ vision by:

  1. fostering recognition of the 1918 Griffin Plan as a work of national and international cultural significance, and conserve those elements that contribute to this significance in a sustainable manner whilst allowing for the evolution of the city in contemporary terms
  2. recognising that Canberra is a young city and ensure that future development continues to give expression to the visual geometry, built form, landscape and cultural vitality of the 1918 Griffin Plan
  3. recognising that some elements (for example, the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House) are successful reinterpretations of the 1918 Griffin Plan which are consistent with and strengthen the framework and spirit of the Plan.

2. Building on the Griffins’ vision by:

  1. maintaining the 1918 Griffin Plan as the primary organising framework of the city’s urban form, landscape and symbolism
  2. fostering Canberra’s unique sense of place that has evolved from the Griffins’ planning principles
  3. maintaining the Garden City and City Beautiful values which underpin Canberra’s quality of life
  4. continuing to give expression to the principles of the 1918 Griffin Plan – its visual geometry, built form, landscape spaces and cultural vitality – in order to maintain its integrity as a work of cultural significance which is internationally recognised
  5. continuing to reinforce and, where possible, express the integrity of the Griffins’ visual structure by strengthening the geometry and form of Main Avenues, vistas and public spaces
  6. refocusing the symbolic framework of the 1918 Griffin Plan by consolidating development of national symbols and spaces for commemoration and celebration on the land and water axes, and within the National Triangle
  7. maintaining the geometry and where practicable the fine-grain pattern of the streets and blocks of the 1918 Griffin Plan
  8. strengthening the landscape framework from the natural setting of the hills, water courses and parks to the character of its streets as generously-scaled corridors for formal plantings of broad-canopy trees
  9. maintaining the metropolitan structure principles of Canberra’s planning legacy of environmentally balanced urban extensions: design with nature; undeveloped hills and valleys; landscape containment and greenbelts; low traffic congestion; long-term public transport reservations; provision for walking and cycling; and protection of the Central National Area
  10. maintaining a mix of tree species which enriches the landscape by providing beauty, shade, shelter and wildlife habitats and enhances the built environment.

3. Revitalise the vision with growth in the Central National Area by:

  1. reinstating the Griffins’ intended unity between the Central National Area, its setting and the everyday life of the city
  2. delivering the richness and vitality of the Griffins’ vision by ensuring that City and surrounding neighbourhood precincts are strongly connected with the Central National Area, especially with Lake Burley Griffin and its surrounding parks
  3. accommodating growth in Canberra Central to contribute to a compact, sustainable city that fosters a healthy community, and offers: increased housing, employment and recreation choices; ease of movement; integrated transport and land-use; and respect for the natural environment
  4. developing the central areas of Canberra, such as City and Constitution Avenue, to the urban scale and diversity intended to consolidate the central areas of Canberra.
  5. managing change – particularly in terms of traffic and development – to preserve the historic landscapes, Garden City and City Beautiful values, and the dignity of the Central National Area
  6. using public investment in infrastructure to guide private investment, to enhance the vitality, accessibility and national significance of the public domain of the 1918 Griffin Plan, and to generate economic growth
  7. fostering a greater level of activity, choice, connectivity and accessibility in the central areas of Canberra.

4. Link the city to the Central National Area by:

  1. reducing the physical barriers between the Central National Area, City Centre and surrounding neighbourhood precincts
  2. fostering exchange between local and national activities
  3. harnessing the cultural and economic links between the City Centre and surrounding neighbourhood precincts
  4. facilitating the development of physical connections and urban form to enable greater interaction and exchange between the Australian National University, the Central National Area and City Centre.

5. Extend the City to the Lake by:

  1. developing a variety of waterfront activities on the Lake which are diverse in urban, recreational and ceremonial character and are accessible to the public along the waterfront
  2. enhancing lake-based tourist facilities and experiences
  3. maintaining and enhancing the ecological integrity of the lake shore through environmental management requirements for any new development adjacent to or on the lake
  4. developing natural drainage corridors as linear parks and pedestrian/cycle paths to connect with the lake parklands.

6. Reinforce the Main Avenues by:

  1. realising the identified Main Avenues of Constitution, Northbourne, Commonwealth, Kings, University, Sydney, Brisbane, and part of Canberra  Avenue as multi-use boulevards providing corridors of higher-density mixed-use development, public transport, broad tree-lined footpaths with potential for outdoor dining and street parking
  2. preventing the Central National Area from being overwhelmed by through traffic
  3. providing flexible, efficient and sustainable public transport and pedestrian and bicycle systems that reduce car dependency
  4. developing a sufficient density and mix of land uses to support public transport
  5. improving the urban design and streetscape qualities of the Main Avenues as approaches to the Central National Area
  6. maintaining the ease and comfort of movement around the city to cater for a diversity of pedestrian, cycle, vehicular and public transport modes
  7. providing streets with a quality architecture and landscape character that fosters a compact, connective and pedestrian-friendly environment for central city living
  8. reducing the barriers of major roads to make it easier for people to access the public spaces of the city, particularly in the Central National Area.

7. Link national attractions by:

  1. maintaining the Central National Area as the appropriate setting for the presentation of events, ceremonies and celebrations of national and international significance, so that Australians might better understand their culture and history – and showcase them to the world
  2. consolidating national and international tourism activity in the Central National Area to enhance the visitor experience and appreciation of the symbolic role of Canberra as the National Capital
  3. developing existing and new national cultural attractions to complement the settings of existing memorials and national symbols, and to enhance economic benefits for the Australian Capital Territory community
  4. developing network concepts to link national attractions in the Central National Area, improving legibility and way finding for visitors, and linking existing public domain and transport networks
  5. engaging new cultural and government buildings with the daily life of the city by connecting them to diverse and mixed-use districts that support a range of public activities, including shopping, dining and entertainment
  6. reinforcing corridors of tourist activity with additional attractions and supportive land uses such as retail, restaurant and hotel developments
  7. protecting and enhancing ecological values of the Central National Area as a site for eco-tourism
  8. identifying opportunities for developing eco-tourism activities in the Central National Area, provide connections to the National Capital Open Space System, and reinforce Canberra’s identity and environmental integrity as the ‘Bush Capital’
  9. enhancing the provision of lake and land-based recreational and tourism opportunities within a predominantly public open space setting
  10. enhancing the sense of arrival for visitors to the National Capital by improving the quality of the approach routes and by progressively formalising the gateway experiences at key city thresholds, culminating in arrival at the Central National Area
  11. enhancing the vistas to the national attractions and icons.
  1. In the Parliamentary Zone (the area bounded by the southern edge of the Lake, Kings Avenue, State Circle and Commonwealth Avenue):
  1. Land uses will comprise:

b.      Development must be guided by the principles, policies and Indicative Development Plan for the Parliamentary Zone set out in the Parliamentary Zone Precinct Code.

2.       Other parts of the Designated Areas will be used in accordance with relevant Precinct Codes.

3.       Land uses will relate primarily to national functions. This should not, however, preclude the establishment of appropriate ACT Government functions, suitably located.

4.       Consideration of commercial uses in those parts of the Designated Area that lie in the City will have regard to the planning effects on City as well as on the Central National Area.

5.       Special consideration will be given to community, cultural, residential, tourism, entertainment and leisure uses which complement and enhance the function and character of the Designated Area.

6.       Traffic capacity and traffic arrangements on major routes in the Designated Area will be planned to ensure safe and dignified access for all ceremonial occasions, and for residents, staff, tourists and visitors.

7.       The transport system within the Designated Area will be planned and managed for volumes of traffic and parking consistent with the significance and use of the area. Transport infrastructure should foster the use of transport systems which minimise adverse effects from vehicular traffic.

8.       The urban design of the area is to achieve an integrated design of the highest quality by managing building height and bulk, and by encouraging building forms and layouts on consistent building alignments which enhance the structure of the Griffins’ plans.

9.       New development should seek to respect the design and character of adjacent buildings in terms of scale, colour, materials, massing and frontage alignment.

10.   Individual development proposals will be assessed on their merits in respect to sunlight penetration, amenity, pedestrian and vehicle access. No buildings taller than RL617 will be permitted in the Designated Area, but the general building height will be 3-4 storeys except where the National Capital Authority determines otherwise.

11.   Buildings in the area must show an appropriate quality of architectural design consistent with their location in this area of special national importance.

12.   Direct access to and from major roads will be permitted where practicable and not inconsistent with traffic safety requirements. The design and maintenance of all roadways and parking areas, including their associated landscaping, signs and lighting, will be of a consistently high quality.

13.   Commonwealth, Kings and Constitution Avenues, the avenues connecting the nodal points of the National Triangle, are of critical significance in delineating the geometric form of the Griffins’ plans. They are not only the primary movement routes, but they are powerful generators of structure and urban form. Their formal expression is paramount and is to be achieved by strong avenue planting, consistent road design, special lighting and detailing. Building heights and setbacks will be planned to ensure consistency and continuity. Setbacks for buildings adjacent to Kings and Commonwealth Avenues should generally be 15 metres. Setbacks for buildings adjacent to eastern side of Kings and western side  of Commonwealth Avenues north of Lake Burley Griffin should be 10 metres. 

14.   Landscaping is to enhance the visual setting of the Designated Area and integrate the buildings with their landscape setting. This will be carried out in accordance with a landscape masterplan to be prepared by the National Capital Authority which particularly emphasises the following landscape themes:

  1. the formal and consistent landscaping of Main Avenues and mall spaces
  2. the combination of formal and informal landscaping which occurs around the Lake’s edge and is the setting for Parliament House and its adjacent area.
  1. Residential blocks must not be subdivided for separate occupation.
  2. Any proposal to subdivide land within the Central National Area will require the approval of the National Capital Authority.

The Parliamentary Zone and Its Setting comprises the Parliamentary Zone, Diplomatic (Yarralumla), Deakin/Forrest Residential Area, Barton, City Hill, West Basin, and Constitution Avenue and Anzac Parade Precincts.

The National Capital and Seat of Government is the legislative, judicial, administrative, executive, ceremonial and symbolic centre of the nation.

The role of Canberra as the National Capital warrants high environmental and aesthetic standards for development generally. It also requires that national functions are located where they may operate effectively and efficiently.

Areas that clearly exhibit the special characteristics of the National Capital primarily have the Parliamentary Zone and its setting as their focus. They embrace the main National Capital uses and national institutions, and other centrally located areas of National Land, diplomatic areas, and nearby lands where planning, design and development are critical.

The core of those areas is the Parliamentary Zone – the physical manifestation of Australian democratic government and the home of the nation’s most important cultural and judicial institutions and symbols.

The area ensures that the essential relationships between Parliament and its setting are planned, developed and conserved in an integrated way, with the Commonwealth providing the requisite leadership of design and ensuring that construction and maintenance operations are carried out to the highest standards.

Urban design is concerned with the arrangement of buildings and spaces to achieve harmony, interest, attractiveness, vitality and legibility. Specific urban design policies are concerned with ensuring that the quality of the built environment results in a composition which is consistent in scale and image.

The subject area is the centre for all the nationally significant activities of Parliament, the Judiciary and government and is the focal point of visitor interest in the National Capital.

A Masterplan for the Parliamentary Zone (refer to the Parliamentary Zone Precinct Code) guides all future development in the Zone.

Within the Parliamentary Zone, the National Capital Authority’s statutory responsibility for the approval of works in Designated Areas does not affect section 5 of the Parliament Act 1974 which provides at subsection (1) that:

no building or other work is to be erected on land within the Parliamentary Zone unless:

caused a proposal for the erection of a building or work to be laid before each House of the Parliament and the proposal has been approved by resolution of each House.

The combined effect of the Act, the Parliament Act 1974 and the Parliamentary Precincts Act 1988, is that within the Parliamentary Zone (which includes the Parliamentary Precincts), Works as defined by the Act require approval by National Capital Authority in addition to any Parliamentary approvals necessary under the other Acts.

Within the Parliamentary Precincts (generally within Capital Circle) the Presiding Officers have responsibility for control and management. In the exercise of this responsibility, any actions falling within the definition of Works set out in the Act continue to require approval by National Capital Authority.

The Plan includes City Hill and the area inside London Circuit as part of the Designated Area. City Hill is one of the three corners of the National Triangle formed by Commonwealth, Kings and Constitution Avenues, and as such the character of its future development and that of the area adjoining it is crucial to the long-term character of the National Capital.

Linking City Hill with Russell is Constitution Avenue. The Plan provides for development beside the Avenue which establishes it as a formal urban avenue. Since design issues will be crucial in setting the character of the Avenue, both sides of Constitution Avenue are included in the Designated Areas.

Land fronting the Approach Routes and avenues which were an important symbolic component of the Griffins’ plans is also considered to have special National Capital interest. Special Requirements have been established for these areas.

  1. Canberra’s role as Australia’s capital is of continuing and paramount importance. National functions, organisations and activities are actively encouraged to locate in Canberra. They should be housed and located in prominent positions where they serve, individually and collectively, as effective symbols of the nation and its capital.
  2. Opportunities should be taken progressively to enhance the international role of Canberra as Australia’s capital. Diplomatic representation, the establishment in Canberra of international organisations, and the holding of international events in Canberra are all encouraged as means of enhancing the National Capital’s international role.
  3. The planning and development of the National Capital will seek to respect and enhance the main principles of the Griffins’ formally adopted plan for Canberra.
  4. The Parliamentary Zone and its setting remain the heart of the National Capital. In this area, priority will be given to the development of buildings and associated structures which have activities and functions that symbolise the Capital and through it the nation. Other developments in the area should be sited and designed to support the prominence of these national functions and reinforce the character of the area.
  5. Planning and development of the Territory beyond the Parliamentary Zone and its setting should enhance the national significance of both Canberra and the Territory.
  1. Major national functions and activities that are closely connected with workings of Parliament or are of major national significance should be located in or adjacent to the National Triangle formed by Commonwealth, Kings and Constitution Avenues, to provide a strong physical and functional structure which symbolises the role of Canberra as the National Capital.
  2. The preferred uses in the Parliamentary Zone are those that arise from its role as the physical manifestation of Australian democratic government and as the home of the nation’s most important cultural and judicial institutions and symbols. The highest standards of architecture will be sought for buildings located in the Parliamentary Zone.
  3. Diplomatic activities should be established in places which are prestigious, have good access to Parliament House and other designated diplomatic precincts, and meet security requirements. They should be planned and designed to establish a distinct character and setting for each area reflecting their national and international significance.
  4. National and international associations and institutions will be encouraged to locate in Canberra, and whenever practicable the District of Canberra Central will be the preferred location for them.


PRECINCT CODES

The Parliamentary Zone Precinct consists of the Parliamentary Zone, being the eastern side of the Commonwealth Avenue road reserve between State Circle and the southern shore of the Lake, Capital Hill, and the western side of the Kings Avenue road reserve between State Circle and the southern shore of the Lake.

The Parliamentary Zone is the area of land bounded by a line commencing at a point where the eastern boundary of Commonwealth Avenue intersects the inner boundary of State Circle and proceeding thence in a northerly direction along the eastern boundary of Commonwealth Avenue until it intersections the southern shore of the Lake, thence in a generally easterly direction along that shore until it intersects the western boundary of Kings Avenue, thence in a south westerly direction along that boundary until it intersects the inner boundary of State Circle, and thence clockwise around that inner boundary to the point of commencement.

Capital Hill includes the land enclosed by State Circle, and that part of the road reserve of State Circle immediately adjacent to Capital Hill.

Figure 11 illustrates the location of the Parliamentary Zone Precinct.

 

Map showing the location of the Parliamentary Zone Precinct. The precinct area includes Capital Hills and the Parliamentary Zone bound by State Circle, Kings and Commonwealth Avenues and the southern shore of Lake Burley Griffin.

Figure 11: The Parliamentary Zone Precinct location

The Parliamentary Zone Precinct is the physical manifestation of Australian democratic government and the home of the nation’s most importance cultural and judicial institutions and symbols. The Parliamentary Zone is the symbolic heart of the National Capital and is at the geometric centre of the Griffins’ plans for Canberra.

The Parliamentary Zone will be given meaning as the place of the people, accessible to all Australians so that they can more fully understand and appreciate the collective experience and rich diversity of this country.

To do this, the place of the people must reflect:

The place of the people must have:

To realise the Parliamentary Zone as the place of the people it will be important to:

For each of these objectives, stated intentions that will guide all developmental and cultural and physical planning and management are as follows.

Objective

Intention

Balance politics and culture

locate national cultural institutions and key government agencies in the place of the people

facilitate the staging of cultural and political events, activities and ceremonies provide opportunities to recognise Australian endeavour

Welcome people

encourage the diverse population of Australia to visit

provide spaces that are pleasant and sheltered

improve the level of amenity and engender vitality (cafés, events, picnic spaces, etcetera)

establish a program of appropriate events and activities in quality venues

provide visitor-friendly  public transport and car parking

discourage through-traffic  and encourage pedestrians and cyclists

make it easy for people to find their destination

Celebrate Australian history and society

create ceremonial and community events that reflect our nation's history, spirit and aspirations

recognise the rich history and contribution of the Indigenous Australian people and of our multicultural society

provide opportunities for people to interpret the role of government, the history of our nation and Australian achievement

foster a sense of affinity and attachment to the National Capital

conserve the unique heritage of the Parliamentary Zone for future generations

Represent Australian excellence

encourage the exemplary use of Australian innovation, creativity and diversity

use Australian materials and craftsmanship

demonstrate sustainable management practices

adopt leading practice design and architecture

Emphasise the importance of the public realm

encourage pedestrian activity

improve the amenity of the open spaces

establish a variety of public spaces that will support a range of activities

establish a hierarchy of public spaces with the Land Axis as the principal space

create a major focus for public representation

provide good signage and interpretative  systems

Make access easy and open

provide a comprehensive system of paths, cycleways and roads

make public spaces safe

ensure that design is barrier free

improve public transport

locate car parks where they are central, safe and secure

establish well signed, convenient routes to major destinations

clearly identify the front entries to buildings

Reinforce the integrity of the visual structure

maintain the integrity and prominence of the Land Axis

symbolically recognise the intersection of the Land Axis and Water Axis

emphasise Commonwealth and Kings Avenues as landscape edges

align buildings normal to the Land Axis and Water Axis and to the Griffins’ proposed terraces

enhance the existing character and quality of the landscape

use lighting to emphasise the organisational structure, buildings and other special features

plant trees to reflect seasonal changes

Strengthen the relationship between buildings and landscape

provide ordered settings and relate buildings of similar functions, using the existing buildings as the focus

locate a central court for each development group

provide clear address and identity for all buildings from the central court

align buildings normal to the Land Axis and Water Axis

establish vistas from the Land Axis to the central development courts

enhance seasonal, day and night landscape settings for buildings

Create a variety of urban spaces

establish a sequence of spaces that range from the Land Axis to the development courts

provide a major focus for public representation and gatherings of national interest

create spaces that will support vibrant activities of discovery and others for reflection or quiet enjoyment

link buildings and places with a legible road and pathway network

Establish comprehensive design management polices for the future

reserve sites for new buildings

plan for a mix of appropriate future functions and land uses

establish a viable financial framework for development and management

provide a defined role for private capital, patronage and sponsorship

develop sustainable environmental management practices

conserve the unique heritage of the Parliamentary Zone for future generations

 

Land use for the Parliamentary Zone should be in accordance with Figure 12.

Drawing showing land use policies for the Parliamentary Zone Precinct. This includes Parliamentary Use for Capital Hills, and National Capital Use for the majority of the Parliamentary Zone. The Lobby restaurant site has a land use of Commercial.

Figure 12: Land use for the Parliamentary Zone Precinct

Permitted land uses for ‘Mixed Use’ are:

Permitted ancillary land uses for ‘Mixed Use’ are:

Identifiable precincts, or campuses, should be created to provide a sensible and flexible rationale for the location of new buildings, public spaces, commemorative works and even some events.

Essentially, the policy is to use the existing buildings as 'anchors' for new development that has a compatible function.  For example, a new government agency could be sited adjacent to either the John Gorton or Treasury buildings, while a new visual arts building could be located near the National Gallery of Australia.  Similarly, any planned extensions to Parliament would be ideally placed on what was Camp Hill between the Old and New Houses of Parliament.

While the existing buildings will determine the character of the functions and uses for each campus, a court, plaza or garden should provide the focus to their layout.  Each building in the campus, existing and new, should have a pedestrian entry fronting the court, and the courts themselves should be developed so that they encourage people to use them for informal lunch time sports, or for celebrations or perhaps protests.

The existing buildings will also influence the architectural and landscape character for each of the campuses.  Urban design guidelines addressing aspects such as form, materials, scale and footprint should ensure that successive development contributes to the integrity of the campus. Gradually this will break the Zone into distinguishable precincts, which in turn will make the Zone more visitor-friendly.

To ensure that people can move easily between the campuses, the campuses will be connected by paths and vistas created from one central court to the other.  To ensure that people can orientate themselves in the Zone, view corridors from the courts to the Lake or Parliament House will also be established.

Five campuses are to be formed in the Zone, with Parliament House as a sixth, as follows:

The general arrangement of each of these campuses is identified in Figure 13.

Drawing showing the intended arrangement of campuses within the Parliamentary Zone. This includes the Parliamentary Executive Campus around Old Parliament House, the Treasury Campus on the eastern side of the Parliamentary Zone, the John Gorton Campus on the western side of the Parliamentary Zone, the Humanities and Science Campus around the National Library of Australia and Questacon, and the Arts and Civic Campus around the National Gallery of Australia, High Court of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery.

Figure 13: Parliamentary Zone - Formation of campuses

For the place of the people to remain relevant, a balance should be maintained between the working political functions of the seat of Government and the national cultural institutions.   Major shifts in this balance would make the Parliamentary Zone into either a theme park of attractions or an office environment devoid of people outside of working hours.

Permissible land uses include parliamentary uses, appropriate National Capital uses and other uses that enhance the function and character of the area.

In recognition of an anticipated 50-year timeframe for future developments including buildings, landscapes and associated works, a number of sites within the Parliamentary Zone should be reserved for future use in four main categories:

In the event that Parliament House needs to expand to accommodate growth in its working population, expansion should be directed into the two existing car parks located either side of Federation Mall between East Block and West Block. Buildings should be three storeys in addition to multi-level basement car parking.

Future growth of government agency functions should be directed into the campuses located around the Treasury and John Gorton buildings. Because they are near the centre of the Parliamentary Zone and house large worker populations, these two campuses should also be the locations for low-scale structured car parks. The car parks may additionally house future shuttle bus services, as well as limited retail amenities such as dry cleaners, newsagents and flower shops.

Any future expansion of the National Gallery of Australia and the National Archives of Australia should occur on sites adjacent to the present locations of these national institutions.

Any long-term requirements for new cultural institutions should also be accommodated in the proposed campuses. There are ample new building sites (many currently used for surface parking) associated with the Arts and Civic campus and the Humanities and Science Campus.

The site to the west of the Land Axis and east of Parkes Place West (currently a surface car park) is a high profile site. The site should be reserved for a significant national building and/or a significant national place of special status and interest.

King Edward Terrace should develop a 'mainstream character' over time with intersection changes, additional pedestrian crossings, broader paths and more consistent avenue planting. To reinforce this character, concessions and convenient services for the public should be provided along the Terrace.

Finally, the new focus of public activities in the place of the people, the area adjoining the south side of Queen Elizabeth Terrace on the lake edge and centred on the Land Axis, should provide amenities and facilities such as restaurants, coffee shops, and exhibitions for the public.

Traffic is an important aspect of realising the objectives for the Parliamentary Zone. Commonwealth and Kings Avenues are major traffic routes connecting the north and south of Canberra and both carry large volumes of peak hour traffic. More importantly, commuters travelling to and from City, Barton and Fyshwick use the east-west roads that go through the Parliamentary Zone, i.e. King Edward, King George and Queen Victoria Terraces.

A disproportionate amount of through-traffic uses King Edward Terrace and as a consequence there is a number of traffic and pedestrian safety matters.

To assist in ameliorating some of the through-traffic, a number of improvements to the road layout and design should be introduced progressively. These include:

Direct, sheltered paths connecting major destinations will substantially improve the public realm of the Parliamentary Zone. Encouraging people to leave their cars in one destination and to explore the attractions of the Zone as pedestrians will add to the vibrancy and life of the place of the people.

A legible and consistent path system that connects all the parts of the Parliamentary Zone will be introduced gradually and progressively.

The first paths to be installed should be in the northern part of the Zone, linking King Edward Terrace and the Lake. Linking with the pathways that now terminate at the northern edge of Parkes Place, the new paths should run down each side of the open space that forms the Land Axis to the Lake. Pedestrian crossings are to be provided on King Edward Terrace along these paths at appropriate points to afford a safe pedestrian environment.

In the vicinity of Old Parliament House, the existing perimeter roads should be upgraded through the use of extended paving to enhance pedestrian movement but in a manner that has regard to the conservation values of the historic setting of the building and still capable of meeting the functional requirements of the building. This would give the building an appropriate, dignified setting and create a generous new pedestrian environment. To further connect Old Parliament House with the other parts of the Parliamentary Zone, some form of secondary entry should be created at the rear of the building facing Parliament House.

In association with the paths, cycle access for both commuter and recreational cyclists will be provided. The cycleway network should be linked to the existing system, encouraging access and especially cycling around the Lake.  All major attractions should be similarly connected, and secure facilities for cycle storage should be installed at these locations.

Good orientation and interpretation will help to create a positive first impression and an enjoyable experience for people visiting the Parliamentary Zone and assist their understanding about the National Capital.

 

A hierarchical signage system to assist people in finding their way around the Parliamentary Zone and reinforce it as a special area is to be produced. The system should include:

This system should ensure continuity in the form of the sign, consistency in message content and easy updating and extension.

Interpretative signs are to be included at commemorative and dedication points and at the entrances to gardens, places and venues. These signs should provide brief notes on the historical background, cultural significance and importance of these places.

Tree planting is fundamental to the enduring design concept of Canberra and to the character and structure of the city. It is the formal tree planting that reflects the ground pattern of roads and formal spaces and establishes their character and beauty.  New planting should be introduced and existing planting strengthened and conserved to attract native birdlife and create shelter, scale, interest and a special character to each of the campuses.

The Land Axis and Commonwealth and Kings Avenues are important elements in making the Parliamentary Zone legible. To maintain the definition of the geometry of the Zone, there must be a long-term strategy for the replacement of trees.

With its central location, length, width and the stark contrast between the turf and the eucalypts, the Land Axis has a powerful presence in the Parliamentary Zone.  Trees should be replaced and the planting extended where appropriate to preserve the visual strength of the Land Axis.

The tree planting on Commonwealth and Kings Avenues reflects different attitudes to avenue planting over the generations. There is an assortment of native, coniferous and deciduous species that requires rationalisation. The original design intent of the avenue planting – to provide a backdrop of coniferous evergreen trees contrasting with the deciduous trees at the street edge – made the avenues legible in the broader landscape and distinctive throughout the seasons. A consistent approach to replacement tree planting should be undertaken to reinstate this intent.

There are other formal spaces that reflect the Griffins’ Plan with its terracing, and the 1920s road layout. These spaces and streets, which include Parkes Place and Queen Victoria, King George and King Edward Terraces, create a series of important cross axes and lateral spaces. The trees that establish these spaces are a mixture of exotic evergreen and deciduous species.

A consistent approach to replacement planting should be adopted to conserve the clarity and character of these spaces. For example, red autumn foliage along the avenues, with accents of yellow at intersection points, will help to define special routes and places of interest.  The brighter foliage of deciduous trees will also emphasise the major groupings of buildings and offer sun and shade control at various times of the year.

The East-West promenade between the National Gallery of Australia and the National Library of Australia will create a major new lateral space. Here, tree planting should be used to identify this as a new cross axis mimicking the older tree planting of the avenues.

The Indicative Development Plan at Figure 14 indicates how growth and development is intended to look in the long term.  The Indicative Development Plan should be used to guide all future planning and development in the Parliamentary Zone.

Drawing showing the indicative development plan for the Parliamentary Zone. Key elements of this plan include reinforcing major spaces through tree planting, establishing a hierarchy of roads, creation of campuses and improving continuity in form and consistency of signage to identify sites and direct visitors within the Parliamentary Zone.

Figure 14: Parliamentary Zone - Indicative development plan


The Barton Precinct is bounded by Kings Avenue and the Parliamentary Zone to the north and the edge of Lake Burley Griffin to the east. The southern perimeter runs along Brisbane Avenue, down National Circuit around Sydney Avenue and ends at Canberra Avenue. State Circle and the curtilage of St Andrew’s Church form the western boundary of the precinct.

Figure 15 illustrates the location of the Barton Precinct.

Map showing the loation of the Barton Precinct. The precinct area includes the area bounded by Kings Avenue and the Parliamentary Zone tot he north and the edge of Lake Burley Griffin to the east. The southern perimeter runs along Bridbane Avenue, down National Circuit around Sydvey Avenue and ends at Canberra Avenue. State Circle and the curtilage of St Andrew's church from the western boundary of the precinct.

Figure 15: Barton Precinct location

Barton has long been recognised as a prestigious office location and is characterised by a series of large buildings set in a generous landscape setting. A number of key government agencies are located in the area, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australian Federal Police, Australian National Audit Office, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Attorney-General’s Department. Smaller Australian Government agencies and private sector offices (often providing services to government) have also established in Barton.

  1. Ensure the highest standards of architecture for all buildings in the precinct.
  2. Ensure that individual buildings contribute to the coherent definition of streets, blocks and public spaces intended for the Precinct.
  3. Create a legible network of paths and streets and enhance connectivity and accessibility to the Lake.
  4. Encourage a mix of land uses which contribute to the vibrancy, amenity and convenience of the Barton Precinct as an attractive place in which to work and live.
  5. Ensure new development meets leading practice for environmental sustainability including energy efficiency and water sensitive urban design measures.
  6. Ensure development recognises and complements the precinct character; as a major employment centre and area of national importance.
  7. Recognise and reinforce the different streetscapes associated with Kings, Brisbane, and Sydney Avenues, and State Circle.

 

 

 

Land use for the Barton Precinct should be in accordance with Figure 16.

Drawing showing land use policies for the Barton Precinct. This includes a mix of National Capital Use, Offices, Commercial, Open Space, Community Facility, Communications Facility, Residential, and 'Land Use A' which permits mixed use development on a single site.

Figure 16: Land use for the Barton Precinct

A building height limit of RL 591 generally applies to the Barton area. This level corresponds with the level of the parapet walls at all four corners of Parliament Drive and establishes an appropriate limit in terms of creating and maintaining built form relationships to Parliament House when seen from vantage points in and around the Central National Area.

Minor building elements (such as lift overruns and roof plant) that extend building height above RL 591 will be considered where this enhances the architectural quality of the building, and fosters energy efficiency, indoor amenity, appropriate urban scale, and adds visual interest to the skyline. Minor building elements should be carefully integrated within the form of buildings.

Lift overruns, plant rooms and any roof mounted aerials, masts and dishes should be designed and sited to have a low visual impact when viewed from the street or Parliament House.

At Section 1 Barton, buildings up to RL 602, inclusive of plant and roof height, may be considered where they add visual interest to the skyline and are set back from the Main Avenue frontages. Individual consideration will also be given to special vertical elements such as a spire or tower associated with a cathedral building on Block 31 Section 6 Barton.

Buildings should be a minimum of four storeys on the Main Avenue frontages of Kings Avenue, Brisbane Avenue and Sydney Avenue.

A high quality of landscape design is sought and mature trees are to be retained wherever possible.

Street trees and other large trees are to be planted in deep-root soil conditions.

Windsor Walk will be constructed and landscaped to form the main pedestrian spine through the Barton Precinct.

Cycle ways and pedestrian paths will be provided to enable safe and convenient movement and should connect to major peripheral paths.

Pedestrian safety and visual amenity should be secured through traffic calming and appropriate streetscape design.

New development should provide a positive address to pedestrian areas, to provide visual interest, activity and passive surveillance. Blank façades and exposed service areas should generally be avoided.

Opportunities for linking the pedestrian networks of the Barton Precinct with the surrounding areas such as the trail system in the peripheral parklands of Parliament House should be addressed by new developments, particularly in the development of Section 1 Barton.

Promote environmentally sustainable development including increased pedestrian and cycle accessibility and public transport use while reducing dependency on private vehicles.

Public domain works and site infrastructure should be implemented concurrently with new adjoining development.

New developments may be required to provide public infrastructure, including adjacent access roads and landscaped public spaces such as Windsor Walk, in accordance with detailed development requirements set by the National Capital Authority.

The development of York Park and environs is primarily to accommodate prestigious offices requiring proximity to Parliament House. York Park occupies a prominent site in the Central National Area and contributes to the urban form and landscape features which give the National Capital its special character and setting. It forms part of the backdrop and approaches to Parliament House and an edge to the National Triangle at Kings Avenue. York Park has a key role in the daily functions of government, provides sites for the headquarters of major national associations and plays an international role in receiving visiting officials and dignitaries. Consequently, it is necessary that development of York Park and its public domain should achieve design excellence of a high order.

‘York Park’ is the gazetted name of the areas contained within Sections 1 and 15 Barton and Section 29 Forrest (named after commemorative tree plantings by HRH the Duke of York in 1927). However, for the purposes of the Precinct Code ‘York Park’ refers also to the environs beyond these Sections and includes all of the area between National Circuit, Canberra Avenue, State Circle and Kings Avenue.

The York Park area should be developed primarily as a prestigious office area and landscape setting to satisfy demand for office accommodation requiring proximity to Parliament House.

The urban structure and character of York Park should reflect the geometry and intent of the Griffins’ plans, and provide a legible hierarchy of streets and public spaces.

Development should respect the geometry and symbolic intent of the Griffins’ plans, particularly the vistas to and from Parliament House and the connections to national institutions, monuments and landscape spaces in and around the Parliamentary Zone.

Architectural excellence is essential for development in York Park, commensurate with its location adjacent to Parliament House.

High quality landscape design is essential for the development of York Park as a prestigious setting for National Capital uses and offices.

The landscape design of streets, pedestrian paths and open spaces of York Park should consist of a range of formal and informal spaces that reinforce the Griffin geometry and contribute to the landscape setting of Parliament House.

The public domain of York Park should provide for places for local recreation with a high level of pedestrian amenity.

Individual buildings should contribute to the coherent definition of streets, blocks and public spaces, form the public domain of the precinct, and contribute to the public domain’s active pedestrian qualities.

Greater use of public transport should be encouraged, particularly for the journey to work. As should less, or more efficient, use of private transport.

Safe and convenient movement systems for pedestrians and cyclists should be provided within the precinct.

Significant natural and heritage values of the area should be identified and protected.

Development and redevelopment should accord with the detailed conditions of planning, design and development below.

Permitted land uses are:

Permitted ancillary uses are:

Commercial parking structures in the York Park area are to be located where identified on the Indicative Development Plan at Figure 17.  Retail and Personal Service Establishments are permitted at the ground level of parking structures as ancillary small scale facilities.

Retail and Personal Service Establishments should be provided at the ground floor level of Offices and structured Car Parks in the location identified for a ‘Retail Plaza’ on the Indicative Development Plans at Figure 17 and Figure 20.

Large spaces for recreation are to be provided at either end of Windsor Walk including a large space suitable for active recreation at the Canberra Avenue end of Windsor Walk as depicted in Figure 17.

Buildings are to be sited parallel with the Avenues (Kings Avenue, Brisbane Avenue and Sydney Avenue), with National Circuit and State Circle, to provide definition to the geometry of the Griffin’s Plans with built form.

Surface car parks are inappropriate as foreground to the views from Parliament House and, to the extent they are permitted on a temporary basis, they are to be carefully screened with landscaping.

Basement car parks should be constructed below finished ground level and concealed from public streets and pedestrian areas.

Multi storey parking structures are to be designed to minimise their visual and physical impacts on the important public streetscapes of the Main Avenues and Windsor Walk.

A parking structure, if provided on the corner of Windsor Walk and Brisbane Avenue, should be located behind a screen of habitable retail/office buildings with address frontages to Brisbane Avenue and Windsor Walk and integrated in design with the retail/office buildings.

Particular attention should be given to the design of roofing to parking structures to relieve the visual impact of large roof areas.  A maximum height below RL 591 may apply to parking structures to relieve their visual and physical impact on the public domain.

Undercroft parking, that is, open parking basements projecting above ground level, will only be permitted where the National Capital Authority is satisfied that it does not limit the opportunity to create attractive landscape areas, and will not be permitted on public street frontages and Windsor Walk.

Parking policies for the York Park area are designed to encourage greater use of public transport for the journey to work.

An overall reduction in the total long-term car parking provision is proposed. This will be achieved by initially limiting the amount of on-site parking permitted in new developments.

On-site car parking should be provided, at a rate of 1 space per 100 square metres of gross floor area, for new offices approved in the York Park area.  A higher on-site and/or off-site provision may be required by the National Capital Authority in specific cases, after taking into account the relationship between on-site parking, off-site parking opportunities and the capacity of public transport in the area.

Parking for non-office uses will be provided at rates consistent with the standards of the ACT Government.

Surface car parks on unleased land will be progressively replaced by strategically located multi-level parking structures and/or underground parking areas. Supplementary car parking in temporary surface car parks may be provided pending the development of these parking facilities.

If for specific sites the National Capital Authority determines that the amount of parking to be provided should be above the minimum on-site amount specified in the requirement above, this additional parking may be provided either on-site, or by way of a contribution to the ACT Government for off-site provision of that parking in the locality, or by a combination of these methods.

To protect the integrity of views to and from Parliament House, development is generally limited to a maximum height of RL 591. 

On Section 1 Barton, buildings up to RL 602, inclusive of plant and roof height, may be considered where they add visual interest to the skyline, are set back from the Main Avenue frontages, and ensure that Parliament House remains pre-eminent in views from elevated viewing points such as Mount Ainslie and from the East Basin of Lake Burley Griffin.

As Parliament House is sited above York Park, the roofscapes of buildings warrant particular attention. Roof plant is to be carefully integrated and enclosed within the roof form. Minor roofscape elements will be permitted to extend above the RL 591 height limit, to an extent not exceeding that of the RG Casey building, to add visual interest to the skyline.

Buildings should be a minimum of four storeys on the Main Avenue frontages.

Building setbacks have been established for Kings, Sydney and Brisbane Avenues within the York Park area as follows: 

On State Circle, a variable setback of a minimum of 20 metres is to apply, to allow the buildings to merge visually and spatially with the informal character of the woodland landscape surrounding Capital Hill.

Drop off points and minor architectural elements, which articulate and enhance the building elevation, will be considered within front setback zones.

High quality paving, lighting and bollards, integrated with soft landscape treatments, are required within site boundaries to complement the standards set and maintained in the public domain.

All buildings on blocks with a frontage to Kings, Brisbane or Sydney Avenue should generally have a significant entry facing the avenue.

Spaces in front of building setbacks are to be landscaped to reinforce the theme of York Park as prestigious buildings in a landscape setting.

External security barriers, if required, such as bollards and retaining walls, should be designed as integral and attractive elements of the civic landscape of York Park.

Services and service entries should be concealed from Main Avenues and pedestrian pathways.

The number of vehicle crossings should be kept to a minimum, to enhance the amenity and safety of pedestrian paths.

The landscape setting of York Park will consist of a range of formal and informal spaces that reinforce the geometry of the Griffins’ plans and contribute to the setting of Parliament House.

Landscape design in York Park will be of a high quality, commensurate with the location adjacent to Parliament House and places of national significance within the Central National Area.

Landscaping of frontages to State Circle will generally be informal, and similar in character to the native woodlands surrounding Parliament House, in order to visually connect York Park to Capital Hill and contribute to its landscape setting.

The design of car parking areas and arrival courts should incorporate generously scaled tree planting beds to provide shade and separation to parking bays. Quality streetscape furnishings and paving treatments are to be utilised to provide visual relief to surface car parks and vehicular areas within or adjacent to places characterised by higher levels of pedestrian use.

High quality, prestigious and durable building materials are required to be used for all developments.

New buildings should complement, but not necessarily imitate, the style, colour, form, scale and finishes of surrounding buildings.

Unpainted or galvanised metal will not be permitted on roofs, parapets or fascias.

Lift overruns, plant rooms and any roof mounted aerials, masts and dishes should be designed and sited to have a low visual impact when viewed from the street or Parliament House.

Internal courtyards of office buildings should generally provide deep in-ground planting conditions and be of a dimension suitable for establishing large trees.

Windsor Walk is to serve as a central linear park and continuous pedestrian spine connecting public car parks, office destinations, the proposed retail plaza and a variety of landscaped recreation areas. It is to provide spaces for active recreation as well as quiet outdoor places for workers to enjoy during the day. Nodes of intimate formal parks are to be developed as accents within an otherwise informal woodland character extending the length of the walk. Larger spaces for recreation are to be provided at either end of Windsor Walk.

Windsor Walk is to be developed and retained as landscaped open space. Windsor Walk will be constructed and landscaped to form the main pedestrian spine through the York Park precinct.

Drawing showing indicative development within the York Park area. This drawing sets out the intended landscape structure of the area, sites for large scale office buildings and building address, areas of environmental sensitivity, recreation areas, and sites for public parking areas.

Figure 17: York Park Masterplan – Indicative development plan


Indicative section drawings for Sydney Avenue, Brisbane Avenue and Kings Avenue.

Figure 18: York Park Masterplan – Indicative sections (1)


Indicative section drawings for State Circle, National Circuit and a typical parking street.

Figure 19: York Park Masterplan – Indicative sections (2)


Indicative section drawings for the central and north areas of Windsor Walk, as well as the plan for the north area of Windsor Walk.

Figure 20: York Park Masterplan – Indicative sections (3)

Permitted land uses are:

Car parking must be provided at the rates specified for Section 9 Barton.

The objective for Section 10 Barton is to enable the Hotel Kurrajong and its setting to be used as a Hotel and Hotel School without detriment to its heritage values.

Permitted land uses are:

Block 3 Section 10 Barton is to be retained and maintained as public open space by the lessee, giving special consideration to heritage values of Hotel Kurrajong.

To allow office development in addition to National Capital Use purposes to enable the York Park precinct to achieve its maximum potential as an office employment area.

Permitted land uses are:

 

Protect the natural and cultural heritage values of the site.

Any new development will require an independent assessment to be undertaken to determine the impact (if any) of any development on the Natural and Cultural Heritage values of the site in accordance with relevant legislation.

To allow development for National Capital Use in the southern part of the Block and for purposes consistent with protection of the whole heritage listed York Park North Tree Plantation (commonly known as the Oak Plantation) at the northern end of the block, and to include provision for parking, either in basements and/ or in a parking structure, and ancillary/small scale retail and personal services at building ground level.

Permitted land uses are:

Permitted ancillary uses are:

The Riverside site on Section 6 Barton occupies a prestigious position in the Central National Area and is prominent in views from vantage points north of the Lake and on approaches to the Parliamentary Zone. It is critical that the form and scale of development of this key site contributes to Kings Avenue and forms an appropriate built form flanking the Parliamentary Zone. All development in this area of Barton is to be of a consistently high design quality befitting its national significance.

The detailed conditions of planning, design and development for the development of the Section 6 are determined by its:

The aim is that the Riverside site, together with development on the opposite block, Section 9 Barton, will become an important public precinct with the development of residential and community uses in close proximity to the office employment areas of Barton and Parkes.

Encourage high density residential development, together with appropriate forms of commercial accommodation and other minor commercial uses.

Provide residential development that enables people to live close to a major office employment centre and take advantage of the panoramic views that the site affords.

Facilitate the development of small scale commercial land uses, such as commercial accommodation, restaurants, cafés and tourist uses to complement the permitted land uses.

Encourage a diversity of land uses that will enhance the Parliamentary Zone and attract day and night activities into the formal areas of the National Capital.

The permitted land use for Block 22 Section 6 is:

• Residential

Other land uses permitted, ancillary to the above uses, are:

• Commercial Accommodation

• Community Facility

• Recreation

• Retail.

All future buildings on the Riverside site should conform with the following principles:

A maximum height limit of RL591 has been established for the Barton area including this site. Individual consideration will be given to special vertical elements such as a spire or tower associated with a cathedral building on Block 31 Section 6 Barton.

The height limit establishes a maximum height for commercial buildings flanking Blackall Street with residential, community and other ancillary uses being located in buildings located closer to the Lake, following the sloping terrain of the site and stepping down to three and two levels for the building nearer Bowen Drive.

The built form should have regard for the site topography, stepping down the slope in terraced levels presenting a series of building ‘fingers’ interspersed with landscaped zones fanning around the contours.

The built form for residential development should be a minimum height of three levels and a maximum of four levels (one being a covered car parking level).

Unbroken, wall like façades will not be permitted. Terraces, balconies, roof decks and awnings are encouraged as a means of modulating façades.

Buildings should be set back at least six metres from Blackall Street with a 10 metre landscaped setback from Bowen Drive and satisfy the relevant ACT criteria regarding noise standards.

Primary vehicle access is to be from Blackall Street. With the exception of a limited amount of visitor parking, all car parking should be contained in structures (in basements or decked) and screened from external view.

Unpainted galvanised metal will not be permitted on roofs, parapets or fascias.

A pedestrian pathway/easement through the site is to link Blackall Street to Bowen Drive and the edge of the Lake.

Provide for the development of mixed use facilities, including office, retail and residential, incorporating a car parking structure and active street frontages.

Promote a range of land uses including Office, Residential, Retail, Café and Restaurant which contribute to the vibrancy, amenity and convenience of Barton as an attractive place in which to work and live.

Provide a prestigious development reflecting the national significance of Barton in the Central National Area.

Provide a scale of development commensurate with accessibility of the site to nearby infrastructure, cultural attractions and parklands and its location within the Central National Area.

Provide a scale of development that increases private investment in the precinct to deliver public infrastructure including local retail and professional services, café/restaurant establishments, and a parking structure.

Promote environmentally sustainable development including increased pedestrian accessibility and public transport use while reducing dependency on private vehicles.

Permitted land uses for Section 9 (shown as Land Use A in Figure 16) are:

To protect the integrity of views to and from Parliament House, development should be limited to a height of RL591.

Minor building elements (such as lift overruns and roof plant) that extend building height above RL591 will be considered where this enhances the architectural quality of the building, and fosters energy efficiency, indoor amenity, appropriate urban scale, and adds visual interest to the skyline. Minor building elements should be carefully integrated within the form of buildings.

Drawing showing the building height limit of RL591 for Section 9 Barton. Building setbacks are also shown and includes a six metre setback from Broughton Street and the majority of Blackhall Street, 25 metres from existing buildings to the south of the site, and a variable setback of between eight and 10 metres from Macquarie Street.

Figure 21: Section 9 Barton – Indicative building height and form

Building and landscaping will need to exhibit design excellence and be designed to ensure protection of the amenity of surrounding buildings and public spaces, including privacy, overlooking and overshadowing.

Individual buildings are to contribute to the coherent definition of blocks and streets generally in accordance with the layout and setbacks. A hierarchy of public spaces and street frontages should be created, with the greatest amount of public activity and building entrances being encouraged on principal streets and at public spaces.

High standards of architecture are sought for the precinct. Modulation of façades, entrances, window bays, sun shading and balconies, and clear articulation of building elements, textures and materials, should provide interest and variety to the streetscape.

Balconies should be of an appropriate size and design to optimise their use and privacy. A minimum dimension of 2.5 metres for at least one balcony per dwelling should be provided and balustrades should be opaque up to at least four storeys from street level.

Active frontages should include shops and entries to buildings. Address frontages will generally be free of service functions and blank walls, with residential and minor commercial addresses encouraged.

Residential frontages may be set back from street boundaries to provide entry porches and a garden interface with the public domain to protect the amenity of residents and contribute to the interest and landscape qualities of the street.

Drawing showing the location of indicative active frontages around Section 9 Barton. This includes a mandatory active frontage for part of Macquarie Street and the encouragement of active frontages for the remainder of Macquarie Street and the area fronting the small section of open space on Blackall Street.

Figure 22: Section 9 Barton – Indicative active frontages

Large off-street permanent surface car parks are to be avoided. Car parking is to be accommodated in basements and/or in above ground structures concealed from public view. Blank façades to public spaces or streets are not permitted and sculptural elements and urban scale public art is encouraged. The inclusion of these elements can assist in ascribing different meanings to buildings, and provides the opportunity to characterise not only shelter and functionality, but to interact with our daily lives.

Some short stay on-street car parking should be provided to support retail uses, pedestrian amenity and after hours activity.

Car parking for development should accord with the following rates:

A higher on-site and/or off-site parking provision may be required by the National Capital Authority after taking into account the relationship between on-site parking, off-site parking opportunities and the capacity of public transport in the area at the time of development.

The proponent must provide the National Capital Authority a long term parking strategy for construction staging which minimises disruption to parking. The parking strategy must be adopted in the first stage of development to accommodate a minimum of 470 displaced car parking spaces.

Access to the site (for parking and site servicing) should be from the side and access street generally.

Additional parking should be provided for vehicles associated with less consumption of energy. These include bicycles, motorcycles, small cars and car-sharing vehicles.

Car parking structures should provide secure storage and related facilities for bicycle users. This would position the development as a local centre for commuting and recreational cyclists, as well as providing the opportunity for an alternative mode of transport between the many office buildings in the locale.

Drawing showing indicative parking arrangements for Section 9 Barton. This includes the requirements for a structured car park concealed behind building facades, short stay on-street parking aling Broughton Street, Blackall Street, Macquarie Street, and any new streets created with new development.

Figure 23: Section 9 Barton – Indicative parking and access

Drawing showing indicative streets sections through access streets and side streets.

Figure 24: Section 9 Barton – Indicative street sections

Paving, lighting, street trees and planting beds should be of high quality and should reinforce the amenity and visual quality of the pedestrian environment. Street trees and other large trees are to be planted in deep-root soil conditions. Existing large trees are to be retained (where possible).

Drawing showing the indicative streetscape and landscape around Section 9 Barton. This includes retaining existing trees where possible, enhancing the streetscape through new street trees, planting beds interspersed with on-street parking, and an open space park in the north eastern corner of the site.

Figure 25: Section 9 Barton – Indicative landscape/streetscape

A retail plaza is to be provided on the corner of Macquarie Street and the side street (see Figure 26) and furnished with lighting, seating and paving to provide an attractive public area for outdoor cafés and restaurants.

The developer is to carry out off-site works to create a high quality public domain commensurate with a vibrant and attractive mixed use precinct.

On-street parking, verge landscaping, paving, lighting and furniture should be provided using high quality durable materials.

Development proposals will demonstrate a high level of performance in terms of environmental design including energy efficiency, climate management and water sensitive urban design.

Drawing showing the indicative location of footpaths in and around Section 9 Barton. The drawing also shows the location of a retail plaza in the south west section of the site and a pedestrian crossing linking this plaza with the south western side of Macquarie Street.

Figure 26: Section 9 Barton – Indicative pedestrian links

All applications for Works Approval for major development are subject to public notification and consultation. The determination of those applications that constitute major works is at the discretion of the National Capital Authority.